Kumbh Mela cut to 1 month over Covid surge

March 25, 2021 15:56

The duration of the Kumbh Mela in Haridwar has been curtailed to just one month for the first time in its history in view of the recent surge in Covid-19 cases and it has been made mandatory for pilgrims to have a "negative" RT-PCR test report to attend the mega congregation.

According to a notification, the congregation on the banks of the Ganga in Haridwar in Uttarakhand will take place from April 1 to 30, with three "shahi snan" (major bathing) dates on April 12, 14 and 27.

Thousands of devotes take a dip in the holy river during the mela with their number increasing manifold on the days of "shahi snan".

Authorities also expect heavy turnouts on the occasions of Chaitra Pratipada on April 13 and Ram Navami on April 21.

Held once in 12 years, the congregation usually lasts around three-and-a-half months.

Its last edition was held in Haridwar from January 14 to April 28 in 2010.

A "negative" RT-PCR test report, not older than 72 hours before arrival, has been made mandatory for devotees by the Uttarakhand high court.

Devotees who have taken the Covid-19 vaccination will have to upload their certificate in an official portal and follow the guidelines.

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